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When this is mentioned to security staff on arrival, the passenger carrying the ring will be directed to a separate security lane - away from the glare of travelling companions for checks so their partner won't see the ring being pulled out of hand luggage.

Matthew Quinney, East Midlands Airport's head of security, said: "It would put a big damper on someone's meticulously planned romantic trip if their big surprise was revealed even before they've boarded the plane.

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"Arguably, there are more romantic places to be proposed to than in our security hall. So, out of courtesy to those who have been planning this moment for weeks or months, we have put in measures to ensure we’re not the cause of failed marriage proposals.

"After all, we want customers to return again and again."

To find out the secret code, passengers should email love@eastmidlandsairport.com in advance of their travel or, alternatively, send a direct message on Twitter to @EMA_Airport.